Basuki Hadimuljono's Reflections After a Year Living in IKN: Plenty of Culinary Options

Head of the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) Basuki Hadimuljono has shared his impressions after a year living in IKN. He stated that the new capital now offers a wide variety of food or culinary options.

He explained that the selection of food in IKN has grown considerably, including dishes such as duck to soto. A year ago, he noted, he was still eating boxed rice.

“There is plenty (of culinary options); now there is a lot. When I moved there during Ramadan last year, we were still using boxes. Now there is Bebek Sunan,” said Basuki to reporters at the Senayan Parliamentary Complex, Jakarta, on Monday, 30 March 2026.

On the other hand, the OIKN chief mentioned that he will no longer travel back and forth to Jakarta every weekend. He joked that he will return to IKN to organise his heart and mind.

“Top! This is it, deputy, so I said there will be no more on Fridays ‘Sir, may I have permission to go home to Jakarta’, no more going to Jakarta. So tomorrow I will go home to IKN to organise my heart and mind,” said Basuki.

On that occasion, Basuki also revealed that Vice President Gibran Rakabuming will be able to work in IKN starting this year. The building and supporting facilities for the vice president’s daily activities have been completed.

According to him, various preparations have also been made by Vice President Gibran’s staff. Thus, it is hoped that it can be realised soon.

“This year it can happen because the building is already finished, yes, the temporary furniture is also ready,” said Basuki.

Basuki hopes that the plan for the vice president to work in IKN can be realised soon. “As for me, my house is now there, yes. So I hope that happens, there will be him truly working there. My hope,” he said.